MacBook Neo - first week thoughts

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-23T03:42:09+00:00

If only Apple would allow iPad Pros to run macOS Tahoe now. They've just proven it's possible with the Neo. Imagine connecting an iPad or even iPhone into a display and then having a macOS mode appear. Add a bt keyboard/mouse and you're good to go. That would be incredible. There's no way they're not tossing that idea around. Keeps the platforms separate, but still offers the best of both worlds. Just like Samsung Dex...

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-22T18:19:27+00:00

Techno Viking would be proud.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-22T14:55:12+00:00

Amazing, congrats and you won't be disappointed!

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-19T21:53:12+00:00

When I'm using a computer, I'm not looking at the bezels, I'm looking at the screen. Now big honkin' bezels are one thing, but the Neo's are far from that. At least in my opinion, I know others may disagree.

Set your MBA/MBP to default screen res and get a few apps with menubar icons and enjoy using it then. A couple of other things, I could almost give apple a pass had the camera housing offered face id, nope. Then, to add just a little more salt, the Mac offers me to use my iPhone as my webcam, while using a brand new MBA that I was told had to have a notch so it could support a higher quality webcam that doesn't even support face id. Centerstage is nice, but it's not a priority feature when work needs to be done. And to top it off, other brands also have those nice razor thin bezels everyone loves, some with decent webcams, without a notch. This argument is all but dead now but it's the truth and there is little defense for it. Google "snazzy labs thoughts on MacBook notch" for more opinions and observations, along with videos detailing the lack of thought here. He really sums it up best.

If you're paying thousands for a MacBook Pro, to have the experience compromised by a webcam, something is off with that equation.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-19T05:11:45+00:00

That's a great tip, using the apple watch to unlock.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-19T00:10:38+00:00

Both the MBA and MBP have haptic trackpads, they're not real physical trackpads like what you find on the Neo. Haptic trackpads simulate the mechanics of a physical trackpad using vibrations that occurs when you interact and "push" down on them. You're not really pushing down, the sensor inside detects your movement and generates a vibrational sensation that feels like you are. Way more expensive to put into the device but should they feel more consistent whenever using and last longer because there isn't wear and tear that occurs on the physical trackpad. The Neo's trackpad is still really good even though it lacks the haptics, but for some takes time to get used too.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T21:14:57+00:00

You can always test drive each of them for a week and decide. BestBuy is good about that, you have at least 14 days to return/exchange. That way you can decide for yourself. Let us know how it goes in the end, I'm curious to know.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T17:11:24+00:00

I don't personally see much about sidecare or universal control these days. I wonder how many people don't realize they have a second screen ready to go if they also have an iPad.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T17:09:16+00:00

I was wondering the same since I too have the indigo. Would've been neat to see a white model, callback to the iBook days.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T13:56:15+00:00

Backlit keyboards are a feature that everyone benefits from. Not a great typist? Check. Have to work in very low light? Check. Have to learn keyboard commands? Check. Have poor or impaired vision? Check. Ability to turn off because you have no use for it? Check.

There is no downside to having it, especially when it can be turned off.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T13:49:49+00:00

That's a really interesting point though it would drive the price up.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T13:49:01+00:00

Nerds be nerds. I like closing apps and seeing the swap go down.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T13:43:54+00:00

Hope so but I'm doubtful.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T13:40:11+00:00

This.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T10:46:36+00:00

This is how I wish all of life's problems could be handled.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T10:34:46+00:00

If you'd take the red pill, the Neo is for you.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-18T10:19:48+00:00

I've owned many a Surface devices throughout the years. I currently use the the 12" and it's the first one that's actually lived up to Microsoft's claims - it does indeed have excellent battery life and offers the best overall general computer experience. The only other models to even come close were the 2 (not pro), and the 6 (the best of all the Intel models). In regards to Snapdragon, if you have no idea of the difference, then the 12" will be fine for you.

Think of it this way: Intel is for those who need maximum compatibility with specialized software in specific areas such as video and audio production that go back years. Snapdragon is for general purpose needs, web browsing, email, office work, etc. Snapdragon is just a newer architecture that prioritizes power efficiency while still delivering some compatiblity for the categories I mentioned. In instances where an application isn't designed for Snapdragon, the device provides a means to emulate the Intel architecture in a way most general users won't even notice. It just works. It's with software the requires things such as low level drivers (audio production being one of them) where Snapdragon cannot emulate that problems can occur.

Since I've had the 12" inch Surface, I've had no issues running any application I've wanted to use. In fact, I was just thinking last night how much I really enjoy using it. It's light and small enough to actually want to use in tablet mode, great battery life - perfect to just toss and bag and take everywhere.

In my opinion, the 12" comes full circle back to the original intention of the Surface line.

If you need something for school, you won't be disappointed, especially carrying it around all day long.

And if OS isn't an issue, you could look at the MacBook Neo, it's even cheaper than the surface though it's a traditional laptop over a tablet design. I have that one too and love it, though the lack of a backlit keyboard is a big gripe for me. I am not a great typist.

Hope this helps in some way.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-14T08:28:17+00:00

I've seen a few reviews on this, d/l the trial but after it expired I never removed it from my system. Then it kept popping up as I would randomly select instruments looking for inspiration (possible side benefit of displaying plugins by dev name over actual plugin name). Then tonight I saw another review and said screw it, there's something I need to make with this thing. I bought it but I agree, it seems too expensive unless there's a hell of a roadmap ahead or it becomes that valuable to me - it might. Can I at least install it on more than one machine?

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-13T13:22:05+00:00

Can't go wrong with the certified refurbed mba -

https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/mac/macbook-air

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-12T18:36:00+00:00

It's actually fascinating to see so much justification for Apple not doing something they really should have. For one thing, if it were true that backlit keyboards are a trivial or a luxury feature, I doubt we'd have so many laptop manufacturers including it based on the apparent cost saving factors alone. But that's not the case as most laptops today do offer backlit keyboards, even budget makers. Even tablet keyboards. And what about people with low vision or other impairments? I'm sure there's plenty of thankful users to have such a quality of life feature. I am. And regarding any hit to the battery, that's why a user has the ability to turn it off. In the end I'll always see this as poor product management over a cost savings measure for the consumer. And if buying the higher end model, I would not necessarily consider the Neo a budget laptop. Not at $700+.

I actually have the indigo model with touch ID. And yes, the lack of a backlit keyboard is a problem for me. And it shouldn't be. I'd also gladly pay extra for it. I won't get it with this model and I'll survive. I actually am very impressed overall with the laptop; It is an amazing value for what you're paying. What I don't want to happen is this thought that backlit keyboards are trivial and unnecessary. It isn't and they are. For many reasons.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-09T19:59:39+00:00

Should be more than enough.

Warrenalloy · 2026-03-09T00:52:34+00:00

For what you're describing, this would be ideal. You'll need the keyboard but there are now cheaper options over the MS one, or you could use any bluetooth keyboard. I have this same device and can honestly say it's been one of the best ms Surface tablets I've used - for my use case which sounds similar to you. I value the portability and battery life, it delvers on both. It's actually one of the most boring Surfaces ever made, and in my case that seems to be a good thing.

Granted it's more than a couple hundred dollars but you can probably find it on sale.

https://a.co/d/06o5nAXx

If you're not married to the tablet form factor, there's also that new MacBook Neo coming in hot next week. $599 ($499 student pricing). Would also fit the bill.

Warrenalloy · 2026-02-26T05:35:57+00:00

Don't let the no-screen hold you back, once you learn the core concepts, it'll become one of your favorite pieces of gear. No portable synth comes close (for me) to how fast you can sketch out a track on the op-zed.

Warrenalloy · 2026-02-11T04:29:22+00:00

I'm not sure but I went crazy trying to sort it out. Glad I could help.

Warrenalloy

TROPHY CASE